When Apple was working with the Apple Airport Extreme, they were also trying to develop a device, which not only provided wireless internet access, but also wireless streaming. The Apple Airport Express is a device, which has all the functions of the Apple Airport Extreme, and in addition also acts as an audio streamer to local sound systems. This means that it is now possible to play every music file in your iTunes directory in any part of your house, provided there is an Airport Express unit and a sound system in the area. The Airport Express is also a wireless access point base, which delivers the latest in the wireless technology. It makes use of the same 802.11g technology as Airport Extreme, which works with any and all 802.11g devices as well as earlier versions based on the 802.11a and b platforms. This means that you may also enjoy the benefits of wireless internet access from anywhere in your house and in comfort as well.

The device is relatively easy to set up, thanks to the Airport Express Assistant software that comes with it. This software automatically detects and configures any and all devices connected to it, either directly or by the wireless connection. Based on the design of the Airport Express, it can be your DSL or Bridge Modem, your local sound system, or a shared printer. When the Airport Express unit is used as the main or primary base for wireless connection, it has to be connected directly to the DSL or Bridge Modem. All units and devices within its range becomes part of the network and are automatically configured by the software. All units have to be compatible with 802.11g in order to work. Earlier versions such as 802.11a and b are also compatible in the network; however, the overall connection speed becomes lower. Additional Airport Express units may also be added to the network for network bridging expanding the range of coverage and also allowing more sound systems to be connected to the systems. All sound systems are configured with the Assistant, so the user may choose for music to play in only one system, several systems selectively, or all of them at once. Similar to the Airport Extreme, a common printer may be connected to any of the Airport Express units for shared printing. Also because all computer units are linked in the network, file and folder sharing is also possible.

Because of its functionality, control (and security) is a necessary factor in the development of this device. The software also includes top of the line encryption software for secure access restricted only to authorized users. This means that unauthorized people may not hack into the network and gain access to the broadcasted signal. The coverage, of course depends on how the administrator configures the device. These functions serve well in protecting the privacy of the owner, and also to optimize the overall connection speed as more units can slow it down significantly, especially if the devices are of lower platforms.